subject: Intorduction To The Bearded Dragon [print this page] Bearded Dragons are part of the lizard family known as Pogona which contains seven species. Their normal habitat is semi-desert regions and dry open woodlands of Australia, with the ability to climb and spend most of their time on branches and in bushes, even found on fence posts when living near human settings. They are omnivores who would look to feed on small desert lizards as well as insects and fruits. Food is often scarce but because of their wide variety of food sources, they can survive on a range of food resources.
The health of Bearded Dragons can be vulnerable with a range of genetic diseases which could involve deformed limbs, tail and possibly extra appendages. When keeping a Bearded you need to be aware that they can suffer from Beta-Carotene deficiency which will cause the colouration of a bearded dragon to fade over time. If this occurs the best cure is to add carrots and yellow vegetables to their diet.
If youre now thinking of getting a Bearded Dragon you will need to make sure you have the perfect Bearded Dragon Starter Kit. The starter kit must include the following, making sure your Dragon is happy in its environment:
A decent size vivarium, which is no smaller than 4ft, allowing space for the animal to play and be comfortable.
Water dishes which your dragon can hydrate from on a regular basis.
A heating rock, which is electronically heated to provide a warm spot for your lizard, essentially recreating its natural habitat.
Natural calcium sand which is non toxic, which again is recreating a familiar environment for your dragon and adds a bit of colour to your vivarium.
Sun Glo Daylight Basking Lamp provides a place for your Bearded Dragon to bask in.
And finally a Glo desert Compact lamp with a self ballasted bulb with ultra high UVB output to assist in increasing the animals calcium metabolism.
You will need to take all of these in to consideration, also most Pet Suppliers have on hand expert so when you are taking on such an exotic pet you need to know exactly what youre doing. One pet shop that I have used for my reptilian pals is The Pet Express; which has a great selection of Wooden Vivariums and Starter kits. They also have Pet Experts on hand in store but if you dont live near by they have a Pet Expert blog which looks to answer any pet queries you may have.
The Pet Express is based in Devon and is part of The Ark Pet Centre retail group which comprises of 6 pet shops in Plymouth, Exeter and the Paignton area. They deal in huge range of pet products from rabbits to the above mentioned Bearded Dragons. They have everything you need to maintain your pets healthy lifestyle.
